RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat favours retirement at 75, Opposition says it's a message for Modi

Bhagwat made the remark during a book release event which was dedicated to late RSS ideologue Moropant Pingle.

The RSS chief said as quoted by Hindustan Times, "When you turn 75, it means you should stop now and make way for others."

"Moropant Pingle once said that if you are honoured with a shawl after turning 75, it means that you should stop now, you are old; step aside and let others come in."

Though BJP leaders have rejected such claims, it is believed BJP leaders step down from any constitutional post once they turn 75.

Bhagwat's remark has been interpreted by the Opposition as a message to Prime Minister Modi, who will turn 75 on September 17 this year. Bhagwat will turn 75 six days prior.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh reacted, "Poor award-winning Prime Minister! What a homecoming - reminded by the RSS chief upon return that he will turn 75 on September 17, 2025. But the Prime Minister could also tell the RSS chief that - he too will turn 75 on September 11, 2025! One arrow, two targets!"

"It's good news that Mohan Bhagwat, who will also turn 75, will retire along with the Prime Minister. So India's Acche Din is on the way," Congress' Pawan Khera took a dig at both.

Earlier, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut had claimed the Prime Minister's visit to the RSS headquarters in Nagpur for the first time in 10 years was to discuss the retirement plans.

Union Home Minister and Modi's trusted lieutenant, Amit Shah denied any such possibility and clarified Modi will continue serving till 2029.